Prelude to a Kiss

Prelude to a Kiss is a captivating romantic fantasy film that blends the ordinary with a dash of the supernatural—an unexpected twist on a typical love story. The film, released in 1992, features the talented Meg Ryan, Alec Baldwin, and Kathy Bates in key roles. Directed by Norman René, the film was adapted from a celebrated Broadway stage production written by Craig Lucas, who also penned the film's screenplay. It artfully combines the ethereal with the complexities of human relationship, taking audiences on a unique journey mixing reality and fantasy.

The film tells the story of two characters who are as opposite as can be, yet strangely drawn to each other. Baldwin's character, Peter Hoskins, is a pragmatic and level-headed real estate developer. With a solid plan for his life, Peter knows what he wants and isn't afraid of pursuing it straightforwardly. In contrast, Rita Boyle, played convincingly by Meg Ryan, is portrayed as an eccentric cocktail waitress with a whimsical, often quirky outlook on life. Her character is free-spirited, her thoughts and ideals profoundly influenced by the more ethereal mysteries of the world rather than the tangible and mundane.

Their paths cross in a chance meeting, the spark between them is immediate, and their relationship quickly blossoms into love. Their relationship, though watered by their palpable chemistry, isn't without its challenges due to their fundamentally different worldviews. However, the couple remains strong, navigating the hurdles together, culminating in their unique wedding ceremony. Their idyllic world, however, is disrupted during their celebration when an elderly guest, played by Sydney Walker, requests a kiss from the bride under the pretext of a traditional wedding toast. This elderly man is a character that has been added to inject an element of the fantastical into the real-world love story. As Rita and the old man share a lighthearted peck, a mystical event transpires that will change the lives of the newlyweds forever.

The narrative takes a fascinating turn as Peter and Rita face a metaphysical predicament following their wedding, which tests their love and devotion in mesmerizing ways. As the plot unravels, the couple finds themselves involved in an inexplicable occurrence that forces them to look within and outside themselves for answers while their authentic feelings for each other are dramatically unfolded. How this remarkable experience affects their relationship and the trials they endure to resolve it forms the core of the film. Their tale is both fantastical and intimate, with elements of humor and profoundness.

Meg Ryan and Alec Baldwin display impressive performances, manifesting the unique quirks and depths of their characters with grace and conviction. Meg's portrayal of Rita is particularly remarkable, teetering between vivaciousness and whimsy with a heartwarming vulnerability. Baldwin, renowned for his charm and charisma, fits seamlessly into the role of a steady, practical man. Their chemistry together is tangible and forms the essence of the film.

Furthermore, Sydney Walker's role as the mysterious old man adds another intriguing layer to the plot, embellishing the storyline with its mystic nuances. Kathy Bates also makes a significant impact, although in a smaller role, contributing to the film's earned success.

The direction is crisp, and the screenplay by Craig Lucas is both engaging and emotionally driven. The movie’s charm lies in its ability to merge two different genres—romance and fantasy—to create a cohesive, intriguing narrative, delivering both heart palpitations and mind-boggling events in equal measure. The serene cinematography and the adeptly selected music enhance the overall ambiance of this romantic fable.

At its heart, Prelude to a Kiss is a magical exploration of pure love, commitment, and the myriad trials that a couple must navigate to strengthen their bond. While it's undoubtedly a love story, it's laced with profound existential themes that provoke substantial thought and discussion making it uniquely insightful and deeply touching. With its riveting plot, sterling performances, and deft execution, Prelude to a Kiss is definitely a film that resonates intensely with viewers and leaves an indelible mark.